Plot: Warren Schmidt's life is nearing its final stages. He's retired and replaced at his job, soon after his wife dies and leaves him to tend to a house that is way too big for him. Unsure of what to do, he buys a camper to travel the country, and he adopts a young African boy whom he writes to about his adventures.
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May 14, 2025
A dry, slightly darker comedy that benefits greatly from Nicholson's stone-faced performance. I watched this very early on in my cinephile journey and liked it a lot. Upon revision, I think it's still a funny and capable film, but it lacks something to make it a true standout. Something I've noticed in other US comedies of that era.
Nicholson is a delight, but the rest of the cast is good too, with Kathy Bates stealing the show in a supportive role. The main character's journey is fun, his letters are hilarious, and the comedy is on point. The film is a tad long though, and I prefer my comedy just a tiny bit edgier. Other than that, I enjoyed it a lot.
December 25, 2003
[review pending]